In January 2024, I went on a family trip to Huis Ten Bosch in Nagasaki Prefecture. I’m from Kyushu, but I’m ashamed to say that this was my first time there.
I remember that when I was younger, there was news that the business was deteriorating and they were trying to turn it around, but it seems that they were successful in turning it around after that, and a friend recommended that I “see the illuminations at least once!”, so I finally went.
What is Huis Ten Bosch?
Huis Ten Bosch is one of the largest theme parks in Japan, located in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, and features beautiful scenery that recreates the streets of the Netherlands. Here we will introduce the history, features, and attractions of Huis Ten Bosch.
History of Huis Ten Bosch
Huis Ten Bosch opened in March 1992. Its name means “House in the Forest” in Dutch, and is derived from the Dutch palace “Huis Ten Bosch Palace”. When it first opened, it was a hot topic and many tourists visited, but after a few years the number of visitors decreased and it fell into financial difficulties.
I still have an image of it from that time and have not been interested in it until now.
In 2003, it applied for the application of the Corporate Reorganization Act, and in 2004, reconstruction began with the support of Nomura Principal Finance. After that, in 2009, H.I.S. took over management, and it continues to attract many tourists to this day.
It is often seen in train advertisements in the Kanto area, attracting tourists from all over Japan, and since it has continued for many years, it may have established its appeal as a theme park? I had changed my perception to that extent.
Features of Huis Ten Bosch
The biggest features of Huis Ten Bosch are its vast grounds and beautiful Dutch-style streetscape. It boasts an area equivalent to about 33 Tokyo Domes, and faithfully reproduces the streets of the Netherlands in the 17th century. A 6km-long canal runs through the park, and the sight of boats passing by will make you feel as if you are in the real Netherlands.
Huis Ten Bosch is also known as the “Kingdom of Flowers” where flowers bloom in every season. In particular, in spring, the tulips bloom beautifully, attracting many tourists. In addition, at night, the illuminations shine, making it a “Kingdom of Light” that can also be enjoyed.
The Charm of Huis Ten Bosch
The charm of Huis Ten Bosch lies in its diverse attractions and events. Below are some of the attractions.
Kingdom of Light
Huis Ten Bosch’s illuminations have been ranked number one in the national illumination rankings for three consecutive years, and you can enjoy different light displays for each season.2 In particular, attractions such as the “Light Ferris Wheel” make Huis Ten Bosch even more romantic at night.
When I went there, they had combined projection mapping with illumination, and my wife and daughter were super excited.
Kingdom of Flowers
Huis Ten Bosch is known for its flowers that bloom all year round, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of different flowers in each season. The tulips in spring, roses in summer, cosmos in autumn, and the flowers that bloom together with the winter illuminations are particularly spectacular.
I was worried that there might not be many flowers because it was January, but there were pansies and many other flowers in bloom and I was able to enjoy the flower fields as rumored.
There was an area around the windmill that was covered with fields, and I went for a walk thinking that this was the Huis Ten Bosch I had vaguely imagined.
Kingdom of Music and Shows
You can also enjoy music and shows at Huis Ten Bosch. For example, there are various entertainments such as a review show by the Huis Ten Bosch Opera Company and a masked ball party2. These shows are especially recommended for families with children, as they can be enjoyed by the whole family.
There are lively events in the squares and corridors, so those who like shows and parades will be satisfied.
My son was interested in the attractions, but my daughter, who likes flashy shows, really enjoyed the illuminated show at night.
Game Kingdom
Huis Ten Bosch also has a “Game Museum” where you can enjoy the latest games and attractions2. From retro games to the latest VR experiences, there is a wide range of content that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
The dinosaur hunting attraction using VR on a deserted island was so large-scale that I got totally absorbed in playing. That’s why I didn’t take any photos.
I really wanted to introduce it to you, so I’ve included a link to Huis Ten Bosch’s page.
Kingdom of Health and Beauty
Huis Ten Bosch also has a wide range of relaxation and spa facilities, and an area themed around health and beauty. In particular, the aerial athletics known as “Castle in the Sky” is one of the largest in Japan, and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
I was reluctant to try this aerial athletics, as it looked too heavy for a man in his 40s, but children around elementary school age were vying to get in first. In addition to the athletics, there is also an area where you can glide on swings through the forest, and it looks like a lot of fun if you have the stamina.
Summary
Huis Ten Bosch continues to attract visitors with its vast grounds, beautiful Dutch-style streets, flowers that bloom with every season, and a wide variety of attractions and events. Whether you walk around, rent a bicycle, or take the park bus, it’s a theme park that the whole family can enjoy, regardless of age.
If you’re interested, be sure to check it out.
Photo Collection
Huis Ten Bosch is known for its flower fields and illuminations, and it certainly is beautiful.The flower fields were decorated with illuminations, and beautiful scenery was projected onto them, which, combined with the music playing in the venue, made for a spectacular and impressive sight.
The round thing is a floating hotel.It floats on the dock in the harbor area, and although you can’t see inside, it looks fun and intriguing.I can’t find it on any booking sites, so I guess it’s not currently open to stay there? What a shame.
